Fourfold Gospel

Alliance founder Dr. A. B. Simpson defined the C&MA’s spiritual DNA more than 100 years ago, referring to it as the Fourfold Gospel; it’s the heart of what Alliance people believe about Jesus and forms the foundation of all that defines The Alliance movement.

The Fourfold Gospel is the Christological summary on which the core values of The Christian and Missionary Alliance is based. Through dramatic spiritual encounters that changed the course of his life, Simpson came to firmly believe that Christ was not only his Savior, but also his Sanctifier and Healer.

Alliance people share this rich legacy, as well as our founder’s passion to complete the Great Commission—to take the light of Christ to places where there is little access to the truth—and bring back our Coming King.

Jesus Christ is our Savior.

The Name of Jesus has impacted lives around the world for more than 2,000 years. He is a universal Savior, promising that: “whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Jesus is an exclusive Savior. “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name in heaven given to men by which we must be saved” Acts 4:12. Contrary to what contemporary culture tells us, there are not multiple paths to God. There is only one—Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ is our Sanctifier.

Many Christians understand God’s promise of salvation but do not experience the ongoing sanctifying work of Jesus Christ in their lives. For those who neither understand nor allow the Holy Spirit's control in their lives, the results have a profound effect.

Unsuccessful struggle against sin and a lack of power in life and ministry frustrate those who have asked Jesus to be their Savior but not their Sanctifier, resulting in a lack of joy in their walk with Christ. At the point when we are born again, we become members of God’s family. We believe He paid the price for our sin and that his followers are—set apart from those are not born again—and are seen as holy because of what Christ has done.

Jesus Christ is our Healer.

A great portion of Christ’s time was dedicated to healing the sick. He healed all kinds of people: the blind, the paralyzed, the lame, the deaf, lepers, those who had fevers, and many with chronic illnesses.

We find no record in the gospels of Jesus turning away anyone who came to him for healing, nor do we find that any disease was too difficult for him to heal. He even raised the dead. Miraculous healings still occur today—evidence that Christ is still our Healer.

Jesus Christ is our Coming King.

The physical return of Jesus has been the subject of speculation and controversy since His ascension into the clouds, which is recorded in the New Testament Book of Acts. Knowing that countless millions still have not heard the gospel, The Alliance is committed to doing its part to complete Christ’s Great Commission before His imminent return.

C&MA DNA

The Fourfold Gospel

This five-week series—ideal for new member classes, adult Sunday school, and small group study—will help people in your church understand what it means to be “be Alliance” and how to live victoriously in Christ.